Local and loved: A growing list of Australian-made fashion labels
image via @themadrenatura/instagram
words by daisy henry
Locally made fashion.
In a landscape as fast-paced as fashion, it’s become more important than ever to pause and ask yourself, “Who is making my clothing?”. With rising costs and rapidly growing trends, it’s not easy for designers to keep production local.
In many cases, fashion labels will move towards offshore production. When this is done responsibly, supply chains are transparent, garment workers are paid a livable wage, factory conditions meet mandatory requirements and environmental costs are taken into account. However, in the face of fast fashion, we know this isn’t always the case.
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Just recently, Fashion Journal reported on a new initiative from the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) aiming to rebuild local manufacturing capabilities. While the 10-year roadmap recognises the need to strengthen Australia’s fashion and textile production, we also think it’s worth paying attention to the designers who, despite the challenges, are already offering a collection of locally-made pieces. From everyday basics to tailored suits and silk gowns, find our roundup below.
Sister Studios
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Every piece of clothing from Sister Studios is designed in-house and produced locally. The label works closely with a range of makers in Melbourne, and prioritises using natural fibres and deadstock materials in its production. Whimsical at heart, you’ll find no shortage of colour, asymmetrical cuts, ruffles and more.
Madre Natura
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Translating to ‘Mother Nature’ in Italian, Madre Natura has always championed sustainability in its design. Launched in 2020 by designer Jackie Galleghan, the label blends modern and nostalgic elements, using premium natural fibres. Each garment is crafted in Sydney by a close community of skilled makers, and released in small, limited runs.
Beare park
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For those who gravitate towards structured blazers and sweeping silk gowns, you’ll be excited to know Beare Park is committed to keeping its manufacturing local. Each garment is designed by co-founder and creative director Gabriella Pereira, and made by master tailors and makers in Sydney and Melbourne.
Lucinda Babi
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Lucinda Babi is committed to slow, conscious production. Her eponymous label is all made-to-order in-house by Lucinda out of her Melbourne studio. Find a range of ruffled skirts, halter neck tops, printed tank tops and more.
Monphell
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Monphell is a Melbourne label helmed by designer Toby Wright. Blending his background in design and construction, the label is known for its use of high-quality materials and oversized, unisex styles. From its merino wool knitwear to its signature wide-leg trousers and double-breasted blazers, every garment is made locally.
Par moi
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Melbourne label Par Moi was created by designer Ashiya Omundsen in defiance of fast fashion. With a mission to create pieces using deadstock and surplus fabrics, the label has stepped away from ‘collections’ in a bid to discourage mass, multi-seasonal consumption. From clothing to bags, each piece is designed, cut and sewn in-house by Ashiya.
All is a gentle spring
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From the beginning, womenswear label All is a Gentle Spring has been committed to keeping production local. Known for its chic and feminine styles, every item is crafted using natural fibres like wool and silk, and is produced by independent makers in Melbourne.
Karla Špetić
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Launched in 2008, Karla Špetić’s eponymous label is known for pushing the boundaries. Blending precision and tailoring with unexpected cut-outs, lace catsuits and playful details, it’s clothing that feels both wearable yet exciting. Working with mills and fabric suppliers across Japan, Europe and New Zealand, Karla’s garments are made-to-order in Australia.
Van Der Kooij
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Created and run by Natasha Veenhuizen, Van Der Kooij is an Australian-made label known for its special-occasion silk gowns, lacework and bridalwear. Pieces are handmade in limited quantities, as well as made-to-order, highlighting the label’s emphasis on craftsmanship and sustainability.
For more on sustainable fashion, try this.
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